Hi everyone! Lisa Heffernan, coordinator, here on the blog today. I wanted to share a short note with all of you on last month’s webinar, and offer a link to the recording.
On November 17, members of the ELCA Disability Ministries team hosted “ Creating Accessible Spaces On A Budget”, for lay and rostered leaders seeking budget friendly ideas and tips regarding accessibility in and for their faith communities. Myself, Anita Smallin, and Rev. Mary Ann Harrison were joined by 168 people for this event, and were glad to have Rev. Ed Kay, Senior Director, Discipleship & Inclusive Communities, there to moderate and two ASL interpreters present as well.
We invited the participants to put some “holy creativity” into their spaces by considering what they may already have that could be repurposed or reimagined –so that all may participate and lead in all parts of congregational life. We offered tips and tools for planning accessible outdoor worship and fellowship activities, gave resources for Blind and Deaf community members, and offered insight on making the life of the congregation more open for people with invisible disabilities, neurodivergence, and cognitive disabilities.
In all, the webinar was about what it means to belong in the body of Christ, and how we can make that happen with resource that are at hand in what are tight financial times for many. Our team is excited to offer more webinars and opportunities in the future, so please check this space and upcoming newsletters for information. This was just a beginning, and we’re excited to share more and collaborate with others along the way.
If you would like to, you can access a recording of the webinar here: https://vimeo.com/1139086719 . Perhaps it will spark some holy creativity in your ministries, too!